Highland Passage: The Slochd and Routes of Scottish History
Let John share with you a new view on this well known Highland's Pass
The Slochd is a well known mountain pass on the A9 in the Scottish Highlands, notable for its dramatic scenery and often snow bound in winter. It's located between the towns of Inverness and Aviemore, in the heart of Scotland's beautiful and rugged landscape and provides a gateway to the Northern Highlands. The Slochd has been an important route through the Highlands for centuries, used by drovers, soldiers, and travellers. It's part of the old military road network established in the 18th century to quell the Jacobite uprisings and to connect distant parts of the Highlands with the Lowlands.
Railway Heritage: The Slochd Summit is also renowned for its railway heritage, being one of the highest points on the Inverness to Perth railway line. The engineering feats required to build the railway through this challenging terrain are celebrated, and remnants of the old railway infrastructure can still be seen.
Natural Beauty and Wildlife: The Slochd is set within a stunning natural landscape, featuring moorland and mountain views. It's a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey, making it a fantastic location for birdwatching and nature photography.
Archaeological Sites: The region around the Slochd is rich in archaeological interest, with numerous sites ranging from Bronze Age hut circles to deserted settlements. These sites provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived in the Highlands through the ages.
But how many of us have actually stopped here and got out of the car? We have a great heritage and nature walk coming up on Saturday 9th March - where you can do just that!High Life Highland Ranger, John Orr is gearing up to set out on a captivating journey through time and nature and will be your guide through the stunning moorland landscape above the Slochd.
This exclusive 4-mile trek take us along the old military road where you can have a full exploration of history, archaeology, and breathtaking wilderness that promises to enchant anyone with a passion for the past and the beauty of nature.
Discover the secrets of the now deserted villages nestled on the hillside, spanning from the Bronze Age to the 19th Century. These silent witnesses of time offer a unique glimpse into lives long gone, with their stories just waiting to be uncovered. As you wander through these ancient dwellings, you'll be transported back through centuries, imagining the lives of those who once called these places home.
This hike offers more than just village ruins though, peering through the lens of of a historian you will see the remnants of corn-dried kilns, a horse engine, and an abandoned 19th-century farm, each with its own tale. The mysterious hut circles dotting the landscape add another layer of intrigue, inviting speculation and discovery.
This adventure is also a call to nature lovers. John can show you the rugged beauty of the moorland area as you’ve probably never seen it before, with its wild flora and fauna. This offers a serene backdrop to the day’s historical exploration. For those keen-eyed observers, there's a good chance to spot raptors soaring in the sky, so don't forget your binoculars!
This 4-mile trek is a moderate challenge, requiring a reasonable level of fitness due to the rough terrain at times, ensuring a bit of an adventurous yet very accessible journey. Designed for adults who cherish history, archaeology, and the great outdoors, this hike is an opportunity to step away from the everyday and immerse yourself in the wild and amazing history of the Slochd.
Book your spot now, for a mere £10! Meet us at a secret location (John will reveal this upon booking) meet new people locally, and take a journey through time, history, and the stunning landscapes of the Slochd.
John Orr is the High Life Highland Countryside Ranger for Inverness. Throughout his career spanning 30 years, John has demonstrated a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and education. His work has not only contributed to the preservation of Scotland's natural heritage but has also inspired many individuals to engage with and appreciate the natural world around them. His work includes developing and implementing management plans for local habitats, leading educational programmes, and working collaboratively with local communities to raise awareness of our natural world.